Kashmir is a place in the
northwestern part of a subcontinent where India and Pakistan
like to argue over territory. And in spite of a lot of trouble
over who owns this lovely little parcel of land, no one really
sure. While there was an election back in 1987, no one can
say whether it was a legitimately honest election. And because
of this possibility of shady execution, the Indians and the
Pakistanis have been fighting and protesting for decades over
who owns the place. Perhaps it would do some good for both
sides if they just ended up flipping a coin, or allowed their
best athletes to compete against one another in games that
both countries are renowned (and proud) of. But in the interim,
until these two countries can find some method of finally
resolving the ownership of this area, this lovely place is
covered in the grime of strife.

Kashmir has had two elections which may have been
rigged: one back in 1952, and one back in 1987. Both times, there
have been peaceful protests from Indians, and fighters of various
kinds from both countries. While many of the fighters from Pakistan
are just mercenaries, and not their actual army, it could still
be considered either an intrusion or an occupation of the area.
In fact, the Indian army has actually been accused of committing
war crimes in their efforts to gain some finality in their control
of the area.

What is truly strange about this entire ordeal
is how long it has been playing out. Why the two countries have
been investing so many resources into having this area is beyond
many people’s understanding. Some have said that it began
secular and has progressed to being justified through religion.
Still others have declared that the entire thing is merely a cover
for other reasons that have not come to light in the public eye.
Maybe someday the area will have peace.